Santee Indian Mound and Fort Watson

The Santee Indian Mound stands as an earthen structure near Summerton, featuring both Native American construction and later military fortification elements.

British forces utilized the mound's height advantage in 1780 by establishing Fort Watson, which patriots later captured using a wooden tower strategy.

The mound represents different periods of occupation, from Native American ceremonial use between 1200-1500 to Revolutionary War military operations.

The archaeological site is located within the Santee National Wildlife Refuge, offering visitors insights into both indigenous and colonial military history.

Marion and Lee's forces captured Fort Watson without artillery by constructing an overnight wooden tower that exceeded the fort's elevation.

Location: Clarendon County

GPS coordinates: 33.53900,-80.43780

Latest update: March 2, 2025 23:39